Wha't Outside Your Tent?

“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 3:13-14

“Location, Location, Location” is what any good realtor will tell you is the greatest factor in determining a properties value. In Genesis chapter 13 we read the story of Abraham and his nephew Lot whose herds had grown so large they needed to go their separate was and relocate. Lot must have had this principle in mind as Genesis 13:10-11 tells us, “And Lot lifted his eyes and saw all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere (before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah) like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt as you go toward Zoar. Then Lot chose for himself all the plain of Jordan, and Lot journeyed east. And they separated from each other.”

Location does play an important factor in a properties value and yet are you aware there is another factor more important than location that determines a properties worth? The most important factor in determining your properties value is your neighbors property. It’s like this, even if you take care of and develop your property and your neighbor neglects his and allows his property become run down, like it or not, that will cause your properties value to decrease and drop in value. Lot made a huge mistake in that he looked around and made a decision based on what he saw. What he should have done was look up to God and ask for guidance to make the best decision. Lot made a mistake that would cost him far more than just the value of his property. He failed to consider his neighbors when making his choice.1 Corinthians 15:33 warns us, “Do not be deceived: "Evil company corrupts good habits."

Lot had a bigger problem that he couldn’t blame on anyone else. A problem that each of us needs to consider and guard against in our own lives when making the decisions we do each day. Genesis 13:12 tells us, “Abram dwelt in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelt in the cities of the plain and pitched his tent even as far as Sodom.” Lot pitched his tent in such a way that the first thing he saw each morning was the wicked city of Sodom and Gomorrah. One of my favorite pastors has well said, “the ruthlessness of sin requires ruthlessness towards sin.” 1 John 2:15-16 warns us, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world.” Lots problem was his infatuation with Sodom and Gomorrah the same way even believers have an infatuation with the world.

Lot needed to do a 180 degree turn and face his tent towards Canaan, to set his eyes on the land of promise, being reminded each morning when he arose, “for we walk by faith and not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7). The message is clear today. Be careful where you pitch your tent, loved one, be cautious of what you focus on each day when you step out into the world. What is your motivation today, loved one, what shapes your dreams of the future, what is your ultimate goal? Is it as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” or is it as Jesus warns us in, Mark 8:36-37, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Corrie Ten Boom once said, “when I look around I get confused, when I look down I get depressed, but when I look up my hearts at rest.” It all comes down to which direction we pitch our tent.

“looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

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If you are new to Calvary Chapel Bakersfield, stop by the awning located in the middle of the campus. Besides receiving a warm welcome we have a free gift there for you! We’ll be happy to answer any question you might have and assist you in orienting yourself with our campus and ministries.